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Exhibiting the 'powers' that protect us

STRONG DEFENCE: Visitors taking a look at Vidhwansak displayed at an exhibition on OFT premises in Tiruchi. Photo: M. Moorthy

G. Prasad

Expo of newly-developed weapons marks Ordnance Factory Day Expo of newly-developed weapons marks Ordnance Factory Day The latest version of anti-tank projectiles that have ability to pierce the enemy tank were displayed

TIRUCHI: The Ordnance Factory Day was celebrated by employees of OFT and Heavy Alloy Penetrator Project (HAPP) here on Saturday.

An exhibition organised on the OFT premises as part of the celebrations featured a wide range of weapons.

The newly-developed weapons by the OFT, Tiruchi, on display included 'Vidhwansak', The Destroyer (12.7mm/14.5mm/20mm), used for destroying bunkers even at a distance of 2000m. The Under Barrel Grenade Launcher fires 40mm grenade up to 400m and it can be attached to a 5.56 rifle and A.K.47.

The Ugra 40mm is a multi-grenade launcher with six shot capacity and a multi-shell launcher to lob tear gas shells and smoke shells.

Also on display was the recently developed 0.315 sporting rifle in jazzy colours, which was available for sale to public.

The General Manager of the OFT, S.K. Beri, inaugurated the exhibition.

Regular production items including 5.56mm and 7.62mm rifles were also on display apart from 30mm cannon, 12.7mm air defence gun.

At HAPP, the latest version of anti-tank projectiles that have ability to pierce the enemy tank was exhibited.

During the celebrations the General Manager, V.K. Bhasin hoisted the Ordnance Factories flag and also commended the efforts of the employees for developing the latest version of projectiles.

A press release stated that after meeting the requirement of the Armed Forces, the HAPP will gear up to enter the export and civil market.

'Ayudh Shri' award

The Ordnance Factory Board has also awarded 'Ayudh Shri' award to two HAPP employees, S. Senthil Kumar and P. Tamil Mani, for their contribution in developing the new generation projectiles.

Mr. Bhasin also gave away prizes to the employees who excelled in sports. A cultural programme was also staged on the occasion.